What Is Balayage Hair and Why It’s the Hottest Hair Trend Today

Notice how a lot of women these days are wearing soft, natural-looking highlights? The culprit is balayage, a stylish colouring technique that looks pretty on different skin tones and hair types, so much so that it’s dominating salons across Australia. The fact that it’s low maintenance means it fits seamlessly into any lifestyle or background.

Booking an appointment at renowned salons like White Ivy Hair Studio will get you the effortless style that suits you best. We offer expert balayage services, but it pays to know exactly what balayage is, how it compares to other methods, and why it’s trending. We’ll also give tips on what balayage style is right for you.

What Is Balayage?

Balayage, meaning “to sweep” in French, is a freehand colouring technique that creates a soft, sun-kissed effect. Here, the colourist applies highlights directly onto the hair. This level of artistry and the natural finish it gives set it apart from uniform colouring.

Beyond being a specific style or fixed look, balayage is really more of a technique, one that works on a wide range of hair types and colours. And unlike traditional methods, it doesn’t use foils or strict sectioning, resulting in soft highlights that look natural, yet polished.

If you want to add dimension to your hair without a glaring change, or want to transform your hair from one look to the next, balayage is for you.

How Balayage Differs from Other Colouring Methods

Familiar with ombré and foils? Noticed some similarities? Well, you might want to know the difference first before committing to balayage.

Ombré leans towards a more defined dark-to-light gradient, usually with a noticeable shift in tone from roots to ends. Traditional foils, on the other hand, create dramatic highlights with more uniform lines, which may require frequent touch-ups to maintain the look. Then there’s “foilayage,” a technique that’s as soft as balayage but features the brightness of foils.

Balayage is all about soft, hand-painted blends, making it the preferred technique by anyone looking for a seamless, tailored hair colour, instead of a striking, dramatic effect.

Why Balayage Is One of the Hottest Hair Trends Today

In Australia, you’ll see women sporting a balayage style everywhere, from the streets to the school or workplace. Some might be wearing warm caramel or bronde balayage blends, 2025’s most requested in salons everywhere. But why is balayage so popular? Well, the answer is simple: it’s for you.

Imagine a style that’s tailored to your face shape, skin tone, and personality. It’s practical, with a kind of personalisation you don’t find in other styles. And once your hair regrows, you can expect the colour to blend softly rather than show harsh lines.

Do you have a busy schedule? Balayage requires fewer touch-up appointments. Plus, there’s a range of haircare products you can use to support the longevity of your balayage.

Who Is Balayage Best Suited For?

The effortlessly stylish balayage is perfect for anyone seeking a natural, lived-in look. You don’t have to keep visiting the salon to maintain your hair colour and worry about regrowth lines being too obvious. As for hair length, medium to long is the most suitable canvas to show its full effect. But, it can work on short hair, too, requiring just a bit more precise placement.

No matter your age or hair type, balayage is worth a try. Its versatility shows in the different Australian styles we see today, from soft, sandy tones on beachy layers to deeper, richer blends on lobs and curls.

Popular Balayage Styles in Australia in 2025

While balayage remains a timeless look, specific styles are trending in 2025. Check out some of the popular styles this year.

• Caramel brunette balayage – If you have darker hair and want to add depth and warmth, go caramel brunette.
• Bronde balayage – For an expensive yet understated look, choose bronde balayage, a balance between blonde and brunette tones.

• Blonde balayage with a shadow root – Add dimension to your hair minus the frequent root touch-ups with a blonde balayage with a shadow root.

Each balayage style complements different skin tones, personalities, and even lifestyles. If you’re interested in trying any of these looks, schedule an appointment at White Ivy. Better yet, sign up for a salon membership to get a discount on our colour services—balayage included!

How to Ask for Balayage at the Salon

Excited to get a balayage at the salon? Make sure you and your stylist are on the same page. It’s best to bring a few reference images to give them an idea of the look you’re after. Ask how much lift is achievable from your natural colour. Be open to your stylist’s advice on what balayage style suits your hair colour and skin undertone the best.

Find the balayage style for you by talking to our stylists at White Ivy. A professional consultation involves discussing your hair history and expectations, and from there, your stylist will give suggestions. Don’t forget to talk about maintenance schedules, too. Ask your stylist when your next salon visit should be, so you’ll know if it suits your schedule before you commit.

Conclusion: Why Balayage Remains a Timeless Hair Trend

Balayage has remained a well-loved colouring technique through the years. With your hair as canvas, balayage hand-paints art that looks natural on any shade or cut. Best of all, it fits effortlessly into your busy lifestyle. If you’re thinking about giving balayage a go, working with a skilled colourist at White Ivy is the best way to get a look that feels truly yours. Schedule an appointment today!